Fishing in Alabama: 3 Things to Know Before Applying for a Freshwater Fishing License for Your Kids

Children, both resident and nonresident, younger than the age of 16 are not required to have a fishing license to fish in Alabama's freshwaters. In lieu of a state fishing license, kids are encouraged to take part in of many community fishing programs offered throughout Alabama.

The Kids' Community Fishing program began in 1995 in an effort to bring families and children together while learning about how to fish. To date, more than 175,000 participants have fished as part of the program in more than 800 state-affiliated events.

Outside funding largely contributes to the cost of acquiring fish and operating the program.

Fish are stocked into the participating lakes and ponds in an effort to enhance the fishing experience of the youth involved. The fish remain when the event is over and are up for grabs to all anglers that are able to fish the region after that time.

Kids' Community Fishing ponds and lakes are open to the public during designated time periods. During an event, only kids are able to fish the waters.

Parents who are residents of Alabama can purchase lifetime fishing (and hunting) licenses for their children even prior to the required age of 16. Licenses are often bought as a gift that can last a lifetime. Parents must include required information, such as physician information and childcare information, prior to the issuance of a lifetime license.

These types of license are considered a unique way to continue a family tradition.

The cost of lifetime license varies based on the child's age and increases over time. The lowest price for which a parent can purchase a lifetime license for their kids is for licenses purchased when the kids ages 2 and under.

Perhaps the best benefit of purchasing a lifetime license for kids is that it remains valid throughout their lives even if they move out of state.

Children 16 and older are bound by the same licensing requirements as adults, resident or nonresident.

Children, both resident and nonresident, younger than the age of 16 are not required to have a fishing license to fish in Alabama's freshwaters. In lieu of a state fishing license, kids are encouraged to take part in of many community fishing programs offered throughout Alabama.

PLEASE NOTE: All information presented on Newsmax.com is for informational purposes only. It is not specific medical advice for any individual. All answers to reader questions are provided for informational purposes only. All information presented on our websites should not be construed as medical consultation or instruction. You should take no action solely on the basis of this publication’s contents. Readers are advised to consult a health professional about any issue regarding their health and well-being. While the information found on our websites is believed to be sensible and accurate based on the author’s best judgment, readers who fail to seek counsel from appropriate health professionals assume risk of any potential ill effects. The opinions expressed in Newsmaxhealth.com and Newsmax.com do not necessarily reflect those of Newsmax Media. Please note that this advice is generic and not specific to any individual. You should consult with your doctor before undertaking any medical or nutritional course of action.